REF 2017 to tackle role of private sector in Vision 2030

RIYADH — The Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been producing many initiatives to engage the Saudi society in the development process adopted by the Kingdom to reach its promising Vision 2030. One if these is Riyadh Economic Forum (REF), which will kick off on Nov. 27-29 to discuss vital aspects of economic growth.

Abdulaziz S. Al-Rebdi, President of ASR Financial Consulting, a member of the Advisory Board for the forum, talking to Saudi Gazette about this year's edition, said "Riyadh Economic Forum takes place every two years. This is the eighth edition of it. It is a platform to discuss the most important challenges that face economic growth."

He emphasized that the topics will focus mainly on economic challenges in the Kingdom. "However, Saudi economy is like other major economy in the world, you cannot isolate it from world economic issues. It influences and gets influenced by world economy," he added.

When asked about whether or not the forum will discuss challenges facing entrepreneurs, he said: "We deeply discussed entrepreneurship last edition and its issues. The main theme of this year's forum is the role of private sector in achieving the Kingdom's Vision 2030."

The forum will have 5 major sessions, he added. “Value behind investing in mineral sector, legal framework and its relations to economic development, human resources because no growth will not happen without successful youth armed with the right education, training and experience, the fourth session will be on challenges facing the private sector in participating in major infrastructure projects, and role of private sector and its readiness for cooperation with the public sector," he explained.

Moreover, he said "the Kingdom has a bright future when it comes to economic diversification and achieving the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Our role is to keep the conversation going between all concerned parties to get a better understanding of every role involved and to help better brainstorm for better cooperation," he noted.